Details

Image shows the full chisel as well as an enlargement of the tip / blade.

Matsumura Mortise Chisels are made with a square section and heavy body for deep mortise work in carpentry and heavy cabinet work. They are hand-forged from the finest quality white steel, laminated to wrought iron for strength, individually tempered to Rc64, and finished off with finest quality double hooped Japanese Red Oak style handles for mallet work. Each tool is razor-sharp and ready to use. Average overall length is 12", with a blade length of 3-1/2".

The Matsumura Family has been producing woodworking chisels for well over 200 years. Mr. Shigezo Matsumura began his apprenticeship at the age of 15 and exhibited such skill that by the age of 25 he was able to open his own workshop. For over 60 years, first as an apprentice and now as a true Master of Blacksmiths, Mr. Matsumura has made chisels one at a time in the old tradition, preferring to use charcoal instead of gas in the forging and tempering process, because of its 'sof heat,' and only the finest white and blue steels for the cutting edges, which are laminated to wrought iron for strength. All cutting edges are tempered to Rc64 and sharpened for immediate use. Note: Mr. Matsumura operates a one-man shop and personally makes each tool, with occasional assist from his wife.